How to Get an Empty Seat Next to You on a Flight

Flying can be much more comfortable with an empty seat next to you. There are several strategies that can improve your chances of getting one. By planning ahead and being observant, you can increase your odds. Here are some practical tips on how to achieve this.

Choose Your Flight Wisely

Flights during midweek tend to be less crowded. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often the best days. Avoid flying during peak travel times such as holidays and weekends. Off-peak hours, like early morning or late evening, generally have fewer passengers.

Select Your Seat During Booking

Many airlines allow you to choose your seat during booking. Opt for seats toward the back of the plane. These are usually filled last. Avoid booking near popular areas like the front or the wing, as these are often in high demand.

Use Airline Seating Tools

Some airlines provide seating maps that indicate fullness. Use these tools to your advantage. Check back frequently as people change their bookings. Sites like SeatGuru can also provide useful insights into the best seats available.

Check-In Early or Late

Early check-in gives you more choices. Late check-in allows you to see which seats are still empty. Both strategies have their merits, so use the one that best fits your needs. Online check-in opens 24 to 48 hours before the flight.

Fly on Larger Aircraft

Larger planes often have more rows and may not fill up completely. Look for flights on wide-body aircraft. The extra space increases the chance of finding an empty seat next to you.

Book a Less Popular Route

Less popular routes are less likely to be fully booked. If you have the option, choose a flight path that isn’t the most direct. Indirect routes with layovers are often less crowded as well.

Buy Two Adjacent Seats

If budget allows, consider purchasing two seats. Airlines like Southwest offer discounted rates for the second seat if you call and explain that you prefer the extra space. This option guarantees you the extra room.

Be on the Lookout After Boarding

Once on board, keep an eye out for empty seats. Often passengers will move around before the plane doors close. If you see an empty seat, ask a flight attendant if you can switch.

Use Loyalty Programs

Frequent flyers with elite status often get priority in seat selection. Joining an airline’s loyalty program can provide better seating options. Points from these programs can also sometimes be used to block adjacent seats.

Ask at the Check-In Desk

Politely asking the check-in staff can sometimes work. They may be able to find a seat with an empty one next to it. Mentioning a reason, like needing more space for working, can make your request more compelling.